Members from Madison and Oneida County Farm Bureaus recently spent time in Albany meeting with lawmakers to discuss the upcoming state budget and public policy priorities to support more than 760 farm families.
They spent two days advocating for funding and legislation important to growing, strengthening and preserving agriculture, joining farmers from across the state as part of New York Farm Bureau’s Lobby Day.
The kicked off the two-day trip with the annual Taste of New York reception, a popular event attended by elected officials and decision makers that highlights the diversity of New York agriculture. Each county proudly served samples of local products including wine and Verona-Vernon-Sherrill FFA’s maple syrup. “It is a wonderful event where we can connect with lawmakers in a relaxed environment,” said New York Farm Bureau District Director and Oneida County member Jake Schieferstine. “It is also such a positive experience for the FFA students who get a first-hand look at how our legislative process works and the tremendous voice that Farm Bureau provides on behalf of every farmer.”
Representatives from each county spent a full day meeting with Senators and Assembly members, not only with their elected officials, but also with urban legislators whose districts are not comprised of farmland. They discussed the need for critical funding for agricultural research, farm safety and educational programs; proper investment in clean water infrastructure and the Environmental Protection Fund; and enacting meaningful legislation that will help farmers better compete and help offset detrimental costs associated with the minimum wage increase. “We brought to Albany a positive agenda that we believe will address the many challenges that impact our farms,” said Madison County Farm Bureau President Darrell Griff. “We look forward to working with lawmakers to keep agriculture on a positive path.”